Trade shows are an excellent opportunity for companies and even independent professionals in sales and marketing to expand their market share. Trade shows are characterized by the exchange of products or services between an organization or individual and another, usually in exchange for cash. Economists often refer to such a channel or network as a marketplace.
Trade show displays and exhibits should be carefully selected to make them stand out from the crowd, complement your brand image, attract new customers and increase brand awareness. A successful trade show experience begins with your choice of trade show displays and exhibits. Ideally, you will choose a combination of stand and booth design which give maximum impact. You may wish to buy a used stand from a private dealer; others prefer renting from a reputable exhibition specialist. You should select a vendor offering a wide range of options, as you may need to modify your display depending on the nature of your business.
In today’s increasingly mobile society, it is vital to promote your business to potential attendees. Consider using specialised multimedia solutions such as video and audio-visual equipment, podiums and screens, trade show displays and booths, trade fairs and other exhibits. These can help you to communicate more with potential customers. Consider also including a message system that plays music during your trade shows, as this will attract more attention and can encourage attendees to join your booth. Consider including a message system that can be linked to your company website, as well as having a small literature section specifically designed to highlight the company’s brand and history.
Trade show displays and exhibits should be carefully selected so as not to distract or annoy visitors to your trade shows or conferences. Ensure that they are well placed in an area where they will not be easily distracted. For example, a presentation on how your new product will solve the problems of a particular local needs could be better presented in an exhibition booth set up in a local food store than in a department store. The same goes for demonstrations on environmental issues that may be better presented in an outdoors setting than in an indoor environment. If trade show planners allow too many attendees to crowd around a single display, it will be difficult for people to see the full benefit of your message.
Another important factor when planning for trade shows and conventions is ensuring your employees remain well supplied. Exhibitors tend to hire in staff whose skills and experience vary widely, from sales people to event planners to display designers. Make sure all staff members have been properly trained and are aware of their responsibilities. They need to be able to communicate effectively with all of your attendees. Finally, consider contracting with a qualified recruitment and talent manager to handle the initial interview and selection of your staff. This will ensure your exhibit is designed to meet your organizational goals and to ensure that all of your staff makes the best contribution to your success.
Trade shows and conventions should not be a one-size-fits-all experience. Exhibitors need to design their exhibits to meet the unique needs of their specific industry. In today’s increasingly global economy, it is important that your trade show displays stand out above the competition. Exhibitors can take advantage of exclusive display and exhibition design services that are offered by experienced trade show specialists. With their experience and creative ideas, they will provide you with a booth that will have an impact on your potential customers and help you achieve your marketing goals.
